1.
summer heat; hot weather; heat of summer
The heat and warmth of summer, or the hot air characteristic of the summer season. A somewhat literary or formal way to refer to summer heat.
暑気払いにビールを飲む。
To drink beer to beat the summer heat.
暑気が厳しくなってきた。
The summer heat has been getting harsh.
暑気払いを兼ねて、仲間たちとビアガーデンに行くことにした。
We decided to go to a beer garden with friends, partly to beat the summer heat.
Most commonly appears in the compound 暑気払い (beating the summer heat — typically through food, drink, or outings), which is a traditional Japanese custom of enjoying cold foods and beverages or gathering with friends during the hottest part of summer. Also seen in 暑気当たり (heatstroke/heat exhaustion — a somewhat old-fashioned term). Homophones: 初期 (initial stage), 書記 (secretary) — different words. Related: 猛暑 (intense heat — stronger), 残暑 (lingering summer heat — after the peak has passed).